The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) issued 33 cautionary warnings over content of ethnic concern during its latest monitoring period, including cases involving racial slurs, derogatory statements and prejudiced remarks.
The figures were disclosed in the Commission’s September 2026 monthly report, released on October 2, which detailed its monitoring, investigative and community outreach activities.
According to the ERC, the 33 warnings were issued between August 25 and September 25, down from 48 warnings recorded in August.
Of the latest warnings, 12 were linked to racial slurs, seven involved racially derogatory statements and five concerned racially prejudiced remarks.
The remaining cases involved content described by the Commission as racially insensitive, hateful or divisive, along with individual instances of xenophobic, racially inciting and stereotypical content.
The ERC said it continues to monitor publicly available material that could contribute to ethnic tension, hostility or intolerance.
The Commission also urged members of the public to exercise caution when communicating, particularly on social media, noting the potential impact of certain comments on relations among Guyana’s diverse communities.
Meanwhile, the ERC’s Investigative Unit currently has a consolidated caseload of 87 matters. This includes three dating back to 2022-2023, 14 from 2024, 49 from 2025 and 21 recorded so far in 2026. One of the matters recorded this year was received during the latest reporting period.
The Commission said the cases are being advanced through several stages, including investigations, Sub-Committee review, legal consideration and conciliation.
It reported that 51 matters have been closed, seven completed and three withdrawn to date.
During September, the ERC also continued its public education and community engagement programme, including participation in the Indigenous Heritage Expo at the Sophia Exhibition Complex from September 1 to 5.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training sessions were also conducted with the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission and the Public Service Ministry on September 9 and 30.
The Commission expanded its Harmony Clubs initiative to Kuru Kururu and Port Kaituma Primary Schools in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. According to the ERC, the initiative seeks to introduce young people to the values of tolerance, mutual respect and appreciation for Guyana’s ethnic and cultural diversity.
Community outreaches were also conducted in Kuru Kururu, Falls Top and Port Kaituma.
Additionally, on September 23, an ERC delegation headed by Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack met with more than 70 families, relatives and survivors affected by the MV Barima tragedy in Port Kaituma.
The Commission said that engagement allowed it to listen to concerns, provide immediate support and identify issues requiring further attention.
The ERC reaffirmed that it remains committed to working with communities, public institutions and other stakeholders to promote “understanding, respect, peaceful coexistence and harmonious relations among all Guyanese.”
